Blue nightshade

Alternative names

Atropa belladonna; Bittersweet nightshade; Scarlet berry; Weedy nightshade

Definition

Poisoning caused by an overdose of plant material of the blue nightshade.

Poisonous Ingredient

• solanine (very toxic even in small quantities)
  

Where Found

• Blue nightshade (Solanum dulcamara)
  

The toxin is found throughout the plant but especially in the fruit and leaves.

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o lower than normal body temperature
  o paralysis
  o shock
  o fever
  o sweating
  
• respiratory
  o slowed breathing
  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o dilated pupils
  
• gastrointestinal
  o stomach pain
  o nausea
  o vomiting
  o diarrhea
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o slow pulse
  
• nervous system
  o headache
  o delirium
  o loss of sensation
  o hallucinations
  

Home Treatment

Call Poison Control.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the plant and the parts eaten
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Bring the plant with you to the emergency room for identification.

What to expect at the emergency room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

• Induce vomiting.